The Lagos State Government has announced plans to fully enforce Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive mandating the immediate evacuation of residents and business operators occupying areas surrounding the fire-ravaged Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building.
The disclosure was contained in a statement released on Tuesday, the 30th of December, 2025, by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, which he also shared via his official Facebook platform.
The 25-storey GNI building, located in Lagos Island, was severely damaged by a fire outbreak that occurred on Wednesday, the 24th of December, 2025, triggering safety concerns within the surrounding environment.
According to Omotoso, the move to enforce the evacuation order became necessary following a comprehensive evaluation carried out by safety and structural experts. Their assessment revealed that the damaged high-rise structure now constitutes a major hazard to lives and nearby properties.
“The Lagos State Government is set to enforce Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive that residents and businesses around the burnt Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building must vacate the area immediately,” the statement said.
Providing further insight into the findings of the experts, Omotoso explained that the danger extends beyond the immediate structure, affecting neighbouring buildings within a defined radius.
“The government deployed experts to assess the site of the fire, and their findings clearly indicate significant danger to lives and property within a 100-metre radius of the building.
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“Several surrounding structures have been compromised and must be evacuated as a precautionary measure.”
The commissioner also expressed concern over the behaviour of some traders and occupants in the area, noting that safety protocols put in place are being deliberately ignored.
“Some shop owners are breaking through the no-movement barrier erected at the scene. This is extremely dangerous and must stop,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Lagos State Government urged all affected residents and business owners to cooperate fully with the evacuation directive, stressing that compliance is critical to preventing further loss and ensuring public safety.